That's not the group expected to protect the Chargers' prize possession, but it won't keep Rivers out of the lineup.

"This is a group that we could be playing opening day with," Turner said. "They're definitely going to be dressed on opening day with where we're at now, and I have a lot of confidence in guys that will line up along the offensive line."

While it's unlikely, Turner did leave the door open to shut Rivers down.

"We have a great plan for Philip," he said. "He would be ready to go if he didn't play in the preseason. He's played a lot of football, and we're going to do what we can to get ready to play."

If precedent remains, Friday is Rivers' last chance to play in the preseason. Turner has held him out of every preseason finale since taking over as head coach in 2007. He also held him out of the second preseason game in 2008, which gave backups Billy Volek and Charlie Whitehurst more snaps.

"You don't want to get (Rivers) hurt; that's a residual of it," Turner said. "But you get a look at a guy who might end up playing and watch him start with the guys he'd be playing with and get him a ton of snaps."

Turner could do so again. But it's likely that Rivers will play against the Vikings, but for a shorter stretch than the three quarters starters typically play in the third preseason game. While Rivers has thrown just four incompletions in two preseason games, he has three interceptions and the first team has looked disjointed thus far.

For his part, Rivers has faith in his protection team assembled for Friday's game.

"You want to have everybody healthy in front of you, but it wouldn't be the first time we've gone without the starting five," Rivers said. "Guys have to step up, and I believe they will. It's not the first group up front right now, but we're confident in them."

Hardwick feeling better

Turner said that Hardwick is feeling better after suffering a concussion during Tuesday's intersquad practice with the Dallas Cowboys. He is at home for the time being, and will not travel to Minnesota for Friday's exhibition.

"Nick is feeling better today," Turner said. "He has a concussion, but hopefully the symptoms clear and he's able to come back soon."